Madison Borough Council Advances EMS Program and Green Infrastructure Initiatives

Overview: In a recent Madison Borough Council meeting, substantial progress was made on several fronts, including the advancement of the new EMS program and discussions on green infrastructure to address stormwater management. The meeting also honored community members, addressed public safety, and delved into the upcoming budget, among other topics.

West Windsor-Plainsboro School Board Grapples with Budget Challenges and Safety Concerns

Overview: In a recent West Windsor-Plainsboro School Board meeting, Superintendent Dr. David Aderhold and board members engaged in discussions about the district’s financial challenges for the 2024-2025 fiscal year and community concerns regarding student safety. The meeting was marked by conversations on the budget, with attention given to the impact of increasing costs on the district’s financial health. Additionally, the board responded to community input on the need to improve pedestrian and bicycle safety around schools.

Cocoa Beach Pension Board Analyzes Fund Performance and Actuarial Assumptions

Overview: The Cocoa Beach Pension Board recently engaged in discussions regarding the performance of the pension fund, the sale of Sterling Capital to Guardian Group, and the actuarial assumptions critical to the city’s defined benefit pension plan. The board reviewed a solid 9.4% increase in the pension fund’s performance and the stability of the actuarial rates, acknowledging the need to manage the plan’s health without additional tax burdens.

Atlantic County Board of Commissioners Advances Flood Response and Cost-saving Measures

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Atlantic County Board of Commissioners addressed issues including flood response initiatives, cost-saving measures, and honoring late public servants. The meeting began with a tribute to the late James Carney, an esteemed former county surrogate judge, and Bruce Crow, mayor of Mikića. A significant portion of the session was dedicated to discussions about enhancing the county’s response to flooding through a new emergency alert app and public alert system, both aimed at improving community safety and preparedness. Additionally, the board approved multiple resolutions that promise financial savings, such as a $100,000 annual saving water conservation project at the Atlantic County Justice Facility and the acceptance of nine vehicles aiming to mitigate congestion and improve air quality.

Cocoa Beach Pension Board Approves Full Redemption from ASB

Overview: The Cocoa Beach Pension Board has unanimously approved a full redemption request from the real estate investment manager ASB during their latest meeting. This decision follows a detailed evaluation of ASB’s underperformance, particularly within the real estate sector, where approximately 47% of ASB’s properties are over 20 years old and facing tenancy challenges due to a preference for newer buildings. ASB had historically used less leverage compared to peers, but concerns were raised after their leverage increased late in the cycle. The redemption process is expected to unfold over multiple quarters due to the slow real estate market and the firm’s guidance is likely to evolve during this time.